Queenstown Lakes District is one of five priority regions for the Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF), which has now reopened.

The government has invited applications from councils for a slice of the funding aimed at improving tourism infrastructure, especially in areas under pressure given the size of their rating bases.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash signalled that five South Island regions will be given priority, to reflect that jobs and businesses in these areas have been hardest hit by the loss of international visitors.

“I am particularly keen to see ideas for projects from Kaikōura, MacKenzie District - Aoraki Mt Cook, Queenstown Lakes, Fiordland and South Westland,” he said.

“The projects in these five regions will provide much-needed local employment as tourism towns work to diversify their economies. The new infrastructure will also ensure the quality of the visitor experience is improved for when tourists return in greater numbers.”

Between $13 and $18 million is likely to be available, he said.

Projects should provide innovative approaches to infrastructure needs; provide sustainable investment which ensures visitors contribute to the ongoing costs of infrastructure; try to construct any infrastructure out of carbon-neutral building materials; retain community support for tourism and ensure high quality experiences; and address capacity issues and future-proof the proposed infrastructure.

The fund is open for applications until Friday April 30. Applications will be assessed by a panel of representatives from local government, central government agencies, and those with experience in the tourism and infrastructure sector.

Further information on the fund, including the eligibility and assessment criteria, can be found here.

PHOTO: Wanaka App